Heritage Conservation Architect

Placements24; Queenstown; On-site; NZD 97,000 - 173,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Pension fund

Professional development opportunities

Office in Queenstown

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Heritage Conservation Architect to join a respected architectural firm in Queenstown, Eastern Cape. The role focuses on preservation, adaptive reuse, and restoration of historic buildings, with responsibilities spanning research, condition assessments, and conservation planning.

The ideal candidate holds a Master’s in Architecture/Conservation with 6+ years’ practice, including 4+ years in heritage conservation.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Architecture, Conservation or related field
• 6+ years in architectural practice with 4+ years in heritage conservation
• Knowledge of South African heritage legislation and policy
• Experience assessing heritage significance and conservation planning
• Familiarity with traditional building materials and repair techniques
• Proficiency in relevant architectural software and documentation tools
• Excellent research, analytical, and problem-solving skills
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement abilities
• Experience with Eastern Cape heritage projects is advantageous
• SACAP registration preferred

Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough historical research, condition assessments, and photographic surveys of heritage buildings.
• Develop conservation management plans, restoration strategies, and detailed repair methodologies.
• Prepare conservation proposals and documentation for submission to heritage authorities (e.g., SAHRA, provincial heritage resources agencies).
• Oversee and manage heritage restoration projects, ensuring adherence to conservation principles and best practices.
• Specify appropriate traditional and compatible materials and construction techniques for repairs and interventions.
• Liaise with heritage consultants, contractors, regulatory bodies, and clients throughout the project lifecycle.
• Provide technical advice on heritage building matters, including adaptive reuse and sustainable conservation strategies.
• Ensure all work respects the historical integrity and significance of the heritage assets in Eastern Cape.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of heritage legislation, conservation policies, and best practices.

Skills

Heritage conservation

Historical research

Stakeholder engagement

Communication

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Project coordination

Education

Master's degree in Architecture/Conservation

SACAP registration (preferred)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a respected architectural firm specializing in the sensitive restoration and adaptive reuse of historical buildings, is seeking an experienced Heritage Conservation Architect to join their dedicated team in **Queenstown, Eastern Cape**. This crucial role involves meticulously preserving and enhancing the architectural heritage of significant structures while ensuring their future viability and functionality. You will be responsible for conducting detailed historical research, assessing building conditions, developing conservation strategies, and overseeing restoration works. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of heritage legislation, traditional building materials and techniques, and a passion for safeguarding South Africa's rich architectural legacy. Contribute your expertise to preserving the unique historical fabric of **Queenstown** and the wider **Eastern Cape** region.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough historical research, condition assessments, and photographic surveys of heritage buildings.


• Develop conservation management plans, restoration strategies, and detailed repair methodologies.


• Prepare conservation proposals and documentation for submission to heritage authorities (e.g., SAHRA, provincial heritage resources agencies).


• Oversee and manage heritage restoration projects, ensuring adherence to conservation principles and best practices.


• Specify appropriate traditional and compatible materials and construction techniques for repairs and interventions.


• Liaise with heritage consultants, contractors, regulatory bodies, and clients throughout the project lifecycle.


• Provide technical advice on heritage building matters, including adaptive reuse and sustainable conservation strategies.


• Ensure all work respects the historical integrity and significance of the heritage assets in **Eastern Cape**.


• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of heritage legislation, conservation policies, and best practices.

Requirements

• A Master's degree in Architecture, Conservation, or a related field with a specialization in heritage conservation.


• A minimum of 6 years of experience in architectural practice, with at least 4 years focused specifically on heritage conservation and the restoration of historic buildings.


• In-depth knowledge of South African heritage legislation, policies, and the work of heritage bodies.


• Proven experience in assessing heritage significance and developing conservation plans.


• Familiarity with traditional building materials, construction methods, and repair techniques.


• Proficiency in relevant architectural software and documentation tools.


• Excellent research, analytical, and problem-solving skills.


• Strong communication, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement abilities.


• Experience working with heritage projects in the **Eastern Cape** is highly advantageous.


• Professional registration with SACAP is preferred.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and a pension fund, and opportunities for professional development in the specialized field of heritage conservation. You will be part of a passionate team dedicated to preserving South Africa's architectural treasures. The firm is committed to ethical practice and high-quality outcomes. This role is based in our **Queenstown** office, offering a chance to engage directly with significant heritage projects within the **Eastern Cape**. Join us in preserving the past for future generations.